Ocean Grove beach to get creative for climate

SANDY creations of all shapes and sizes will take over Ocean Grove main beach next weekend when families across the Bellarine gather for a sand sculpting competition with a climate action focus.

The family-friendly event will take place on February 16 between 10am and 12 noon, with participating families challenged to create a masterpiece inspired by the theme “Protect What You Love”.

First held in 2023, this year’s event marks the second to be hosted by the Bellarine chapter of climate advocacy organisation Parents for Climate, after a planned 2024 competition was felled by extreme weather.

Ocean Grove mum of two and event co-organiser Laura Billings said the event was about bringing the community together to celebrate everything there is to love about the Great Southern Ocean.

“We wanted to create a really positive and inclusive space for folks to have some fun, but also reflect.

“We’re so lucky to live where we do [and we wanted] to use that as the platform to encourage intergenerational conversations about what it is that we love and what it is we need to do to protect and look after it.”

Those attending are encouraged to “slip, slop, slap” and bring along their buckets and spades and a “can-do attitude”.

Local legend and sand sculpting wizard Ian Zulic, whose sculptures have been delighting beachgoers in Barwon Heads for years, will also make an appearance, sharing tips and assisting families with their creations.

These sandy creations will be judged on their creativity, the story behind the design and connection to the theme, with the prizes up for grabs including a family dolphin swim experience with Sea All Dolphin Swims and family surfing lessons with Go Ride A Wave.

With limited spots available due to space restrictions on the beach, Ms Billings encouraged anyone interested in joining in the fun to register before it’s too late.

However, she invited those who do not manage to register for the competition in time to still come down, “be in the buzz” and even help out their family and friends with their sandy masterpieces on the day.

To register for the free event, head to parentsforclimate.org